Local man killed in wreck on 101

A Klamath man was killed in a head-on collision Friday night on U.S. Highway 101 in Smith River.

Kenneth Grover Jones, 67, of Klamath was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash, just south of the intersection of Fred D. Haight Drive and Highway 101, around 8 p.m. Friday.

Coulter E. Mann, 32, of Brookings, was driving his 2003 GMCâSierra northbound when his vehicle veered into the southbound traffic lane and collided head-on with Jones’ 2005 Ford Focus travelling southbound, according to a California Highway Patrol press release.

The crash caused extensive damage to both vehicles, entrapped both drivers, and killed Jones, according to the press release. Mann, assistant principal of Crescent Elk Middle School, sustained major injuries, was first transported to Sutter Coast Hospital, and then transported to another hospital due to the extent of the injuries, according to the press release.

Both drivers were believed to be driving at the 55 mph speed limit and wearing their seat belts, according to the press release.

Alcohol and/or drug use is suspected to have contributed to the collision, according to the press release.